Italian designer sportswear line opens first U.S. store in Miami Beach

Aeronautica Militare, an Italian fashion line inspired by the heritage of the Italian Air Force, has opened its first U.S. boutique in Miami Beach, announced Paola Calandra, co-owner. Aeronautica Militare includes collections for men, women and children and showcases leatherwear, sportswear, outerwear and fashion accessories all featuring the authentic insignia of the Italian Air Force. The use of the insignia and that of the Italian Air Force’s acrobatic flying squadron, Frecce Tricolori, are made possible through an exclusive licensing agreement between the Italian government and Aeronautica Militare’s owner, Cristiano Sperotto.

The upscale line is at once retro with contemporary flashes and supremely crafted to the highest quality. The classic shape of a bomber jacket or the easy silhouette of a polo shirt become statements of confidence when adorned with military patches or silkscreened stenciling. The philosophy behind designer Massimo Giacon’s summer collection, currently offered at the Miami Beach boutique, is all about a sense of belonging and shapes that embody skyhigh spirit and deep-seeded values. Consistency. Integrity. Respect. Selflessness. Discipline and honor. These are the values of the Italian Air Force that Giacon instills into his designs.

The clothes have a casual and military vibe, inspired by aviator pioneers such as Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh and World War II parachuters and airmen. These classics become of-the-moment when paired with form-fitting pieces – a bomber with a pair of skinny jeans, for example, or a shapely stenciled tee with cargo shorts. Every piece in the collection is also infused with the Italian design aesthetic, which adds a sexy and provocative overtone, perfect for Miami shoppers and visitors.

Each new collection stays true to the company’s heritage of exceptional quality leathers and fabrics and connection to the spirit of military aviation, but reinvents itself with fresh styling and detailing.

The international success that Aeronautica Militare and Frecce Tricolori have achieved since the licensing agreement was secured in 2004 is testament not only to the high caliber quality of the clothing, but also to fashionistas who appreciate the values upon which the brand is based, Calandra says. Her Miami Beach location is the latest of more than 1,800 around the world in locations as exotic as Shanghai and Macao as well as locations throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. The brand is sold through both multi-brand and Aeronautica Militare exclusive retail outlets.

The company behind the brand has roots that go back to World War II. It was just after the war that Sperotto founded a tailoring shop in Thiene, Italy, focusing on high quality, handmade clothing. By 1960, the company had developed a specialty for high end men’s and women’s leather apparel and, as a result, an international clientele. It was then, thanks to the proximity of the nearby airport, that Sperotto’s company and the pilots of Frecce Tricolori who practiced their stunts there became acquainted and the company began producing leather jackets for Frecce Tricolori and the air force. With the licensing agreement in 2004, “Private Collection” was added to the brand’s name so that customers could identify the line from authentic military uniforms. In 2012, the company created a new brand, ESA, with fashions inspired by the European Space Agency, literally taking the firm to new heights.

In choosing Miami Beach as the brand’s first U.S. location, Calandra said it was a “no brainer.” In opting for a Washington Avenue address over Lincoln Road, she said the pedestrian mall has evolved into “boring” and “mall-ish.”

“Miami Beach is a world-class city and the perfect location for Aeronautica Militare’s global expansion into the U.S.,” she said. “Our international tourists recognize the label and will be comfortable shopping here. We are also excited to introduce locals to the brand, its unique fashion sense and its superior quality. As for the location, this space is amazing and the neighborhood is truly up-and-coming with a lot of Lincoln Road expats relocating here.”

Aeronautica Militare is located at 1510 Washington Avenue in South Beach. The store is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, call (305) 674-8774, email info@aeronauticamiami.com.